Claims of Fact and Value

Study Notes

Argue whether something is a proven fact.
Claims of fact are either true or untrue.
They are often verifiable through evidence but should avoid stating the obvious.
Empirical data is the focus.
Key questions to ask: Did it happen? Does it exist? Is it true?
Examples include: "The ozone layer is becoming depleted," "Video games lead to violence," and "Second-hand smoke is dangerous."

Assert whether something is good or bad, right or wrong, desirable or undesirable.
Claims of value are based on personal preferences and moral standards.
They attempt to establish standards of taste.
Evaluative language is adopted such as "good," "bad," "right," "wrong," "just," or "unjust."
Key questions to ask: Is it good or bad? Is it right or wrong? How moral or immoral? Of what worth is it?
Examples include: "It is immoral to not donate blood," "Euthanasia is inhumane," and "Classical music is superior to pop music."

Argue for or against specific actions.
They advocate for precise solutions or actions.
Specific language like "should," "must," or "ought to" is used.
Claims of policy may involve calls to action.
The focus is on proposing concrete steps.
Key questions to ask: What should we do? How should we solve the problem? What course of action should we pursue?
Examples include: "The city should ban smoking in public places," "We must reduce our reliance on fossil fuels," and "The government should increase funding for education."

Maintain clarity and focus to avoid vagueness.
Ensure specificity rather than generality.
Should be arguable and significant.
They should be appropriately qualified, acknowledging conditions or limitations.